Telangana BJP leader stirs row, asks Ayyappa devotees not to visit mosque during pilgrimage

Hyderabad: BJP leader Raja Singh has stirred controversy by advising Ayyappa devotees traveling to Sabarimala in Kerala to avoid visiting mosques, particularly the Vavar mosque, during their pilgrimage. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Singh stressed that devotees must strictly follow the rules of 'Ayyappa deeksha,' warning that visiting the mosque would compromise their purity and render them impure. He further accused those encouraging such visits as being part of a larger conspiracy, which has ignited discussions on religious practices and the customs surrounding the pilgrimage.

The Vavar mosque, located in Erumeli, Kerala, holds significant religious importance for Ayyappa devotees. It is dedicated to Vavar, a close companion of Lord Ayyappa, and is traditionally visited by devotees before beginning their trek to the Sabarimala temple. The mosque's role in the pilgrimage is deeply rooted in the Hindu tradition, where worshiping at Vavar mosque is seen as an essential part of the journey to Sabarimala.

In addition to his comments on the pilgrimage, Singh also urged the Chief Ministers of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, A Revanth Reddy and N Chandrababu Naidu, to formally request the Kerala government for 10 acres of land. The land would be used to build accommodation facilities for the devotees, aiming to improve their stay during the pilgrimage. This proposal is part of Singh's broader initiative to enhance the overall pilgrimage experience for those visiting Sabarimala.